Emily in France 🇫🇷 More Lockdown Activities Needed
What are some social distancing hobbies you enjoy?
As I watch England shut down due to coronavirus, and travel seems ever more elusive a goal, I'm trying to reframe and find joy in solitary, socially distanced activities. It's not easy, six months after lockdown began, to still find pleasure in being alone and indoors. But there's something to be said for the coziness of fall, for taking full advantage of the sunny skies and chilly weather. Here are three things I hope to do more of in the coming months – how about you?
1. Yoga with Adrienne
I am one of very few people who did not opt to begin a workout regimen during confinement. But Adriene's soothing voice feels particularly welcome these days, so I may give yoga another go and see if it sticks this time.
2. Reading in French
I'm forever promising to read more in my second language, but frankly, I'm lazy. Reading is my way of unwinding: I read first thing in the morning (before coffee, even!) and right before going to sleep. My mind is rarely awake enough to read in French. But I know it would improve my grasp and understanding of this language that was, really, what brought me here, and so I'm committing to reading one book in French for every one I read in English. (That's a lot o' books.) First on the list? Verre Cassé by Alain Mabanckou.
3. Sending Postcards
I sent countless cards when I was in high school, but I've since fallen out of the habit. This summer, I started things up again, so if you want a Parisian postcard, send me your address!
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What I'm Writing
1. This year's Champagne harvest began before winemakers knew how many grapes they could legally pick. This oddity is just one way in which 2020 was different for the world's most famous sparkling, as I wrote in Wine Enthusiast.
2. The plant-based food industry continues to boom, but it's meat-eaters – not vegetarians – who are driving that change. For Business Insider.
3. When I was devouring The Bluest Eye, I sent a picture to my sister who just happened to be reading the exact same thing. To say we both loved it would be a gross understatement – more on the blog.
What I'm Reading
1. This insightful opinion piece on why it might be a good idea for judges themselves to get involved in the future of the Supreme Court, in the Washington Post.
2. This fun essay on one couple's commitment to good grammar, in Next Avenue.
3. And it's not reading, but this video exploring the five best bagels on the Upper West Side made me very, very homesick, care of Delish.
A bientôt !